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Price is negotiable within reasonable limits. Serious buyers may contact me for a number or skype or WhatsApp line for further info.
Purchased 2 DACS and 1 Server from a Authorised Dealer for Playback Designs.
Keeping 1 DAC and 1 Server for my Main listening room. Potential buyers can skype me and I can give a small tour of my current setup.
This unit up for sale is a second DAC I have, since I love the sound of this DAC I went ahead with out thinking about it carefully and purchased 2 DACS, thinking one can be used for my office.
Was supposed to be installed for my office setup. Started to realise I'm not using this enough to justify its cost. I have a Syrah Server with another Merlot for my main listening room.
My Feedback speaks for it self. Any questions please email me. I can speaker over the phone or communicate via Email. Skype Calls are welcomed if you need a live view to check it out.
Virtually Brand New Open Box, Tested Working.
Comes with Paper work, Wooden box.
Will Ship Via FedEx World Wide.
Payment accepted Via Bank Wire, Paypal.
Paypal fees has to be covered by the buyer. I prefer to ship to Confirmed address only if paypal is selected as a form of payment to protect both buyer and seller.
Condition is 10/10 I have rated it 9/10
Under 10 hour use.
Reasonable Offers will be accepted. Shipping in wooden crate hence shipping price is slightly high as FedEx will calculate this shipment based on Dimension.
Invoice and Customs paper work can be figured out to ease purchasing. Just let me know what you need put on the invoice prior to shipping out.
No questions have been asked about this item.
Retail Price: $6500.00 (My unit is virtually brand new! Mint!!)
Asking Price: $4850.00 Plus Shipping (Paypal is accepted but fees need to be covered by buyer)
Shipping Via FedEx: but I can also ship via EMS.

With the latest firmware update (Version 18033R) SONY HAP-Z1ES is supposed to be supporting Media Server functionality.
The Helpguide says that "Some USB digital audio devices may not work for playback." (see http://helpguide.sony.net/ha/hapz1es/v1/en/contents/TP0001220509.html?search=dac )
I've tried to connect HAP-Z1ES via USB with the PowerDac Wadia 151 yet i'm getting "USB device not supported".
Has anyone faced a similar issue and is there any way how to get it working? Seems I'll have to employ a USB to spdif converter ;( Thanks

Meitner Audio Updates their MA-1 D/A Converter ($7,000)
With the introduction of Meitner Audio's very first product—the Meitner MA-1 Stereo D/A Converter—cost-no-object performance has suddenly become a whole lot less costly.
How did we do it? By utilizing the award-winning technologies Ed Meitner developed for our EMM Labs line of products. The result is a converter that turns the 'you-have-to-spend-a-lot-to-get-a-lot' paradigm on its proverbial ear?
It also happens to turn your computer or media server into a high-end, high-resolution music-making machine.
Re-introducing the MA-1 – built with the award winning reference technology in the DA1. The DAC2X features the latest generation MDAT2™ up-converting DSP, MFAST™ jitter removal system, MCLK™ master clock and Ed Meitner’s hand built 22.5792 MHz proprietary discrete dual differential D-to-A converters.
Using technology developed in their flagship DA2, EMM Labs and Meitner Audio has once again updated both their multi-award winning DACs the Meitner Audio MA-1 DAC and EMM Labs DAC2X. In addition to being the perfect companion of their TSDX CD/SACD Transport, the updates provide a huge improvement in transparency, accuracy and overall sound quality.
The new V2 unit updates consist of:
MDAC™ in both platforms are now fully discrete DSD512/8xDSD D/A converters completely built in-house at EMM Labs' manufacturing facility in Canada
Their multi-award winning MDAT2™ DSP has also been refined and updated to synergistically work with the new 8xDSD MDAC™. The new MDAT2™ DSP does real-time transient detection, processing and up-conversion of all incoming audio, PCM and DSD, before sending it to the new MDAC™
The DSD audio signal path has been re-designed allowing for further enhancements in transparency during the DSD to Analog conversion process
Proprietary hardware galvanic isolation for the USB Audio interface
Supports sampling rates of 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4 and 192kHz at word lengths up to 24 bits through all 6 digital inputs,
Support for DSD128/2xDSD and DXD streaming via USB Audio
Support for DSD (DoP) streaming via TOSLINK, SPDIF and AES
No configuration necessary, just plug and play.
Every other digital system from its proprietary jitter removal MFAST™ to its super accurate clock, MCLK™ has also been carefully revised as well for better sound.
MFAST™ asynchronous technology
Feed the MA-1 through any of its six inputs and the revised Meitner Frequency Acquisition System (MFAST™) instantly acquires the signal, buffers it, then strips jitter out completely. A high-speed asynchronous system, it decouples input from output. MFAST™ ensures that you'll enjoy pristine sonic clarity whether the incoming data stream is pure oranything but.
MDAT2™: 8x DSD (DSD512) upsampling
From there, the signal goes straight into a new Meitner Digital Audio Translator (MDAT2™) which upsamples digital audio to DSD512, 8x the SACD standard sampling rate.
The world's best dac/clock combination
The MA-1 features an improved, standard-setting MDAC™ dual differential discrete D-to-A and MCLK™ high-purity master clock modules. Together, they're music to our ears and we bet they will be to yours too.
Note - Please note the V2 units performance are immediately noticeable and not subtle. So it’s quite a big jump in performance from the standard MA-1to the V2 version. Most units purchased in 2016 would already have newer hardware and you can just update the unit with the finalized firmware to make it V2.
We are also offering an upgrade package for customers with older MA-1s and DAC2Xs to upgrade their units to V2 (upgrade MSRP is: $1,750)
If you aren't sure if your DAC already has the newer hardware, please contact us with the serial number to check.
High End Audio Store NYC - Experience Ciamara1.844-CIAMARA (1.844.242.6272)

nova150 Integrated Amplifier + ELAC Uni-Fi UB5 Bookshelf Speaker Package - SAVE $100
In an effort to provide a complete system solution, we have put together some of our most popular and highest value lines into complete system packages. Not only is the Peachtree Audio nova150 an excellent integrated amplifier that is capable of driving all types of speakers, but it also features a world-class DAC for all your digital sources, a phono stage for a turntable, a discrete headphone amp and a home theater bypass to integrate into a home theater system.
We selected the ELAC Uni-Fi UB5 bookshelf speakers ($499/pr) as the perfect match with the Peachtree nova150 ($1599) because these the best sub $500 loudspeakers we've ever heard and the nova150 will help them reach their full potential and sound their very best. When combined with the ELAC Uni-Fi UB5 speakers, this combination creates an incredible, high performance stereo system for under $2,000. The Peachtree Audio nova150 Integrated Amplifier + ELAC Uni-Fi UB5 speakers are truly a match made in musical heaven.
Peachtree Audio nova150 - First of a New Generation
The Integrated Amplifier… Reimagined
The nova150 isa completely new generation of Peachtree integrated amplifiers that reimagines the original concept and takes it to an even higher level. I represents the culmination of everything Peachtree has learned as a leader in computer audio, plus a few new things they hadn't gotten to - until now.
Highlights
ESS Reference 9018K2M Sabre DAC
32-Bit/384kHz PCM and 5.6MHz DSD (double-DSD) compatibility
New generation ICEPower amplification - 150 watts per channel
Extensive internal grounding
Designed by a world-class engineering team
Asynchronous USB, Coax and (2) Optical inputs
Asynchronous iOS input for direct digital input from Apple Lightning devices
Phono (MM) input
Home Theater Bypass
Loop feature to add an external tube buffer, EQ or other processor into the signal path
Discrete, custom-designed headphone amplifier
Optional Wi-Fi module to be announced
Available in Gloss Ebony Mocha and Piano Black
ELAC Uni-Fi UB5 - Beyond the bookshelf
Space constraints should never compromise great sound, and the Uni-Fi UB5 is the perfect solution when floor space is at a premium, but demand for audiophile sound is not negotiable. Using the same outstanding driver and crossover components of its bigger brother, this compact, 3-way, bass-reflex monitor delivers the sonic signature of Uni-Fi in a smaller package.
All three Uni-Fi loudspeakers—bookshelf, floorstanding and center-channel—employ a concentric driver. Because of its ideal time-domain characteristics, a concentric design—combining a tweeter and midrange diaphragm within a single voice coil—delivers the most coherent and accurate reproduction across the treble and midrange frequency spectrums. Because of their high cost, concentric drivers are traditionally used in only the most expensive speakers.
Highlights
Custom-designed concentric driver
Balanced 3-way design
Robust cabinets
High-quality base and feet
Sophisticated crossover
Sophisticated aluminum woofer
Custom-designed binding posts
Magnetically attached grills
High End Audio Store NYC - Experience Ciamara1.844.CIAMARA (1.844.242.6272)

Luxman D-08u SACD Player and DAC
"The D-08u looks so good and sounds so good playing discs or files via its USB input that at its price I can’t think of a better or more versatile way to crunch bits into music."
"Where the Luxman player succeeds (and where so many other one-box players fall short) is in making the SACD layer sound like a better, fuller, more realistic version of the music captured on the CD layer."
-Dennis Davis (The Audio Beat, October 2015)
If you're looking for a player that is capable of getting the most out of your SACD collection, as well as, your hi-res downloads, then look no further than Luxman's flagship D-08u SACD/DAC player. The D-08u produces an expression and detail unimaginable for CD players using any less than Luxman's high quality components, attention to detail and of course passion for high-fidelity audio. Equipped with both USB and CD and ready for multiple file formats and platforms the D-08u is a CD player in a league of its own. With the D-08u you no longer have to agonize over choosing an SACD player or a stand-alone DAC.
For more information or to purchase, please visit us here.
This product qualifies for Free Shipping and 5% back in points when you register for Club Ciamara Membership Rewards Program
1.844.CIAMARA (1.844.242.6272)
High End Audio Store NYC - Experience Ciamara

The Peachtree Audio family of stereo integrated amplifiers, speakers and DACs all follow their modern sound design philosophy. Make it sound great, make it simple and make it beautiful. They achieve a unique balance of these qualities to offer what we believe are the best integrated amplifiers with DACs, headphone amps, power amps, speakers, and USB DACs for computer audio. A Peachtree stereo system complements any environment, whether it's used for desktop audio or as the HiFi in your living room. The unique look and sound of a Peachtree is as easy on the eyes as it is to your ears.
Peachtree Audio nova150 - First of a New Generation
In 2007 Peachtree Audio introduced a new integrated amplifier that immediately and forever changed the amplifier landscape. This amplifier - our original Decco - was groundbreaking for its time. It had a unique industrial design with an aluminum front panel, a simple button and knob user interface and a rounded wood case finished with beautiful veneers. Inside, it housed a class A/B power amplifier, a tube buffer visible through a window in the front panel and, most significantly, a USB input with built-in DAC to accept a direct connection from a Mac or PC! "Computer audio" was born, with Peachtree's Decco and Nova amplifiers on the leading edge, and with computer audio a defining part of Peachtree's identity.
We now introduce nova 2.0 . . . a completely new generation of Peachtree integrated amplifiers that reimagines the original concept and takes it to an even higher level. Nova 2.0 is the culmination of everything Peachtree has learned as a leader in computer audio, plus a few new things they hadn't gotten to - until now.
To take full advantage of the new engineering team, Peachtree moved the nova from a reputable manufacturer in China, to one of most skilled in micro and macro electronics manufacturer Canada.
Peachtree will still have product like deepblue, remote controls, BT1 and the like manufactured in the far east, but the most complicated and important core product like nova have the advantage of the new factory.
Peachtree PCB’s have been very nice the last few years, but by electrical standards, the new PCB’s are like electronic jewelry. And the grounding system is now better than ever allowing totally silent circuits to do their job.
The new factory actually specializes in high-end medical equipment. The kind of equipment that if there’s noise on the line, or if it fails, people die. As detailed and complicated as the 2.0 circuits are, this facility was the perfect choice.
The Integrated Amplifier… Reimagined
Highlights
ESS Reference 9018K2M Sabre DAC
32-Bit/384kHz PCM and 5.6MHz DSD (double-DSD) compatibility
New generation ICEPower amplification - 150 watts per channel
Extensive internal grounding
Designed by a world-class engineering team
Asynchronous USB, Coax and (2) Optical inputs
Asynchronous iOS input for direct digital input from Apple Lightning devices
Phono (MM) input
Home Theater Bypass
Loop feature to add an external tube buffer, EQ or other processor into the signal path
Discrete, custom-designed headphone amplifier
Optional Wi-Fi module to be announced
Available in Gloss Ebony Mocha, Natural Santos Rosewood and Piano Black
Made in North America
Stunning Results
Peachtree Audio takes great pride in what they have accomplished with the new nova150. It accommodates virtually every type of music source people use today, from spinning vinyl at home to streaming audio from the cloud. They've ushered in an impressive new suite of technological advancements - from the DAC through the power amplifier and at every step in between. This new nova is designed around tried and true audio engineering philosophies to ensure exceptional sound quality and superb measured performance across the board. The new novas - there are more to come! - are truly the most beautiful and exceptional sounding products Peachtree Audio has ever made and are every bit deserving of the designation nova 2.0. We hope you choose to make one a part of your musical life. We are confident that if you do, you will love it!
"Simply stated, If you haven’t heard Peachtree 2.0, you haven’t heard Peachtree."
This product qualifies for Free Shipping and 5% back in points when you register for Club Ciamara Membership Rewards Program
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High End Audio Store NYC - Experience Ciamara

One can only hope. I've seen that Oppo plans to release new Ultra HD Blu Ray player(s) in time for the holidays (Sony and Oppo confirm plans to release UHD Blu-ray players - FlatpanelsHD). Even if the price increased somewhat significantly, it would be half the price of an exaSound E28. I'd purchase such an Oppo in a heartbeat, even though I have little interest in the 4k source upgrade.

December Newsletter(Click above for link to full newsletter
Double Club Ciamara Rewards Points Holiday Special + EMM Labs DA2 Flagship DAC Trade-in OFFER!
For the remainder of the year, earn Double Rewards Points (10%)back on every purchase through our Club Ciamara Rewards Points Holiday Promotional. Be sure to register for our Club Ciamara Membership Rewards Program so you can start earning store credit on every purchase.
We're also pleased to announce that we're now offering up to $7500 in trade-in credit towards the purchase of EMM Labs Flagship DA2 DAC. This is easily one of the best DACs available and an awesome way to take your digital playback to new heights.
Finally, don't forget to check out our specials section for great deals on equipment, as well as, special component/cable bundles from some of our more popular products. As always, we offer FREE SHIPPINGon all purchases over $99 and the ability to try just about anything we sell in the comfort of your own home for up to 30-days.
HOT PRODUCTS
ENIGMAcoustics Dharma D1000 Hybrid Electrostatic Headphones($1190)
ENIGMAcoustics has really gone all out with their Dharma D1000 Headphones. From the lightweight, sleek aesthetic to the innovative design and proprietary SBESL technology, it is one of our favorite headphones and one of the best we’ve heard.
Lumin D1 Network Music Player ($2,000) - SAVE $150 on Sbooster Audiphile Power Supply
Get close to the performance of the Lumin T1 for a fraction of the price when you add the
Sbooster BOTW Audiophile Power Supply
Since its release no other line of network music players have received as many awards as the Lumin line of music players. Lumin has taken what they have learned and applied it to what is now their most affordable player yet, the D1. Lumin’s D1 Network Music Player is based on their original and highly regarded, A1. It contains the same “no expense spared” development and technology of the A1, which provides unmatched and award-winning musicality, with minor differences that allow it be more affordable - all while taking extraordinary efforts to not compromise the sound quality. Reducing the size of the chassis and removing the HDMI output help reduce costs without losing music quality, and using an auto-ranging power supply offered the biggest savings for the least compromise.
The Lumin family of players will playback everything from high-res to more popular formats: DSD LOSSLESS: DSF (DSD), DIFF (DSD), DoP (DSD); PCM LOSSLESS: FLAC, Apple Lossless (ALAC), WAV, AIFF; COMPRESSED (LOSSY) AUDIO: MP3, AAC (in M4A container).
Sbooster Ultra Power Filter for Uptone Audio Regen ($100)
The SBooster Ultra for the UpTone Audio Regen USB Hub is their first switch-mode power supply add on based on active filter technology. Compared to the passive SBooster Single Unit you will get with the Ultra an even greater crispness, tightness, distinctness and focus. Last but not least your Regen will run a lot cooler which has a positive impact on the overall sound quality. With the Sbooster Ultra Filter, you get high performance, as well as an economical upgrade for your Regen.
Ayre Acoustics Codex Headphone Amp/DAC/preamp ($1795)
30% OFF CARDAS BALANCED HEADPHONE CABLE of your choice with purchase
The Codex, manufactured in Boulder, CO is equally at home as a stand-alone DAC, DAC/Preamp combination, or Headphone Amplifier/DAC. Encased in a sleek, elegant chassis and equipped with the latest Ayre technology,
Cardas Balanced Headphone Cable for the Codex
One of the features that really separates the Codex from the competition is its ability to be used in balanced headphone mode. This feature has the ability to elevate the performance of your headphones beyond what you thought was possible. We feel that this is such an important aspect of the Codex that we're offering you the chance to purchase any one of the specially constructed balanced headphone cables from Cardas for 30% off! These cables have been specifically designed for the Ayre Codex (and Pono) and are available for a wide variety of the most popular headphones. It is important to note that not all supported headphone models are listed on our or Cardas' site, so please contact us if you have any questions regarding your headphones' compatibility with one of the Cardas models.
Auralic Aries Mini - 20% OFF CABLES WITH PURCHASE ($549)
One of this years most anticipated products has finally begun shipping.For those that don't already know, The ARIES MINI is a wireless streaming node designed for connecting to your existing home audio system. It not only has shared all software and hardware functions coming from original ARIES, but also equipped with additional high quality analog output and optional hard drive slot for anyone whom don’t want to invest for a dedicate DSD DAC and NAS drive.
We don't know any other device from any manufacturer that can do what the Aries Mini can at this price.
EMM LABS DA2 TRADE-IN OFFER
EMM LABS DA2 - Next Generation Flagship DAC is HERE! (call for pricing details)
For a limited time, trade-in your existing DAC and receive up to$7500 in credit towards a DA2. Not all DACs are eligible, so be sure and contact us to see if you have a qualifying product. This is a very limited time offer, so don't miss out on this great opportunity to own one of the world's finest DACs.
Ed Meitner of EMM Labs proudly previews the DA2, his successor to the much beloved DAC2XThe DA2 is EMM Labs next generation flagship DAC. Re-designed from the ground up, Ed Meitner has once again created a DAC that significantly moves the bar in terms of transparency, accuracy and overall sound quality.
NEW PERSONAL AUDIO PRODUCTS
Cardas A8 Ear Speaker($300)
After months and months of waiting, Cardas has finally launched their follow-up to their award winning EM5813 Ear Speakers. The Cardas A8 Ear Speaker features the world's first Ultra Linear, Contour Field, Dual Magnet Driver - an entirely new dynamic driver with no permeable core, delivering deep bass, strong midrange, and soaring highs.
A8 users who want to use other playback devices, such as the balanced output on an Astell & Kern, Pono, or Ayre's Codex headphone amp, can purchase a separate cable specifically for that purpose.
STAX SR-L700 Ear Speakers ($1400)
STAX SR-L500 Ear Speakers ($700)
STAX SRM-353X Headphone Amplifier ($925)
STAX SRS-5100 Headphone System - SR-L500 + SRM-353X ($1650)
The first SR-Lambda series was introduced 36 years ago and it has further developed into a new-generation SR-Lambda with its newly designed enclosure - the new SR-L700 and SR-L500 advanced-Lambda series Earspeakers.
The SR-L700 and SR-L500 feature the same hand selected thin-film diaphragm that is used in their flagship SR-009. The SR-L700 also utilizes fixed electrodes machined through three-layer stainless etching using heat diffusion has been used for its sound element. These techniques result in an incredibly well-balanced headphone that produces rich deep bass, delicate high frequency and soothing mid-range.The SRM-353X is the exclusive driver unit (amplifier) produced to drive STAX electrostatic Earspeaker headphones.
Thanks for taking the time to take a look at this month's newsletter, if you have any questions feel free to contact us here, in our LiveChat or at 844-242-6272
Happy Holidays!
High End Audio Store NYC - Experience Ciamara1.844.CIAMARA (1.844.242.6272)

LUXMAN DA-06 DSD DAC
FREE
SHUNYATA RESEARCH VENOM Digital Power Cable with Purchase ($400 value)
"The Luxman DA-06 DAC reproduces music with a rich tonal balance and silky smooth midrange, yet a satiating amount of transparency. The DA-06 is unique among DACs I've heard in recent memory because of those qualities. This is a DAC for listening to and being enveloped by one's favorite music."
- Chris Connaker, The Computer Audiophile (full review here)
Advancing the state of the art, the LUXMAN DA-06 can handle up to 24/192 though its AES and S/PDIF inputs, and up to 2x DSD via USB and there are user-selectable filters for both PCM and DSD. The arch-enemy of data playback is jitter (noise generated by timing errors) - the fluctuation of the signal. By use of a dedicated transformer to cancel the common mode noise from the USB terminal, the DA-06 utilizes asynchronous transmission by DSP (Digital Signal Processing). In addition an internal DAIR (Digital Audio Interface Receiver) helps reduce the jitter by asynchronous processing of the S/PDIF input. Finally, it is equipped with low phase noise clock modules.
Digital inputs are upsampled and processed at 32/384 and there are USB, SPDIF, AES/EBU and Toslink inputs on the back. DSD files played back on the Luxman DA-06 have a musicality and fluidity that are rarely heard in digital playback.
This product qualifies for Free Shipping and 5% back in points when you register for Club Ciamara Membership Rewards Program
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High End Audio Store NYC - Experience Ciamara

Hi all,
I'm wondering if anyone has had a chance to compare these two DACs head to head, and could share their opinions.
They seem to share a key design characteristic - they are using an integrated battery to power the critical conversion components, which can be "trickle charged" via a USB power supply connection so you're not constantly having to recharge it, turn it on/off etc.
Budget wise they are fairly similar - the Proton coming in a bit cheaper at $600 US vs the Ciunas at $750.
Build quality and polish is clearly better on the Proton, and of course there is the proprietary Async USB code that Wavelength has, that is a big part of their claim to fame in the USB DAC category.
Plus in the Ciunas column is that it supports sampling rates up to 192k, vs. the Proton's 96k. Realistically, I think this doesn't mean much as there isn't a lot of high res music out there, but I am betting this changes in the not too distant future so Ciunas might get the nod for being a bit more "future proof."
But the real question is, how do they compare in terms of sound quality? Anyone tried them out on the same setup, to do a side by side comparison? I think most everyone could live with the more homebrew casing of the Ciunas if it sounded a whole lot better...
Would love to hear the collective wisdom of this particular crowd - I have learned a lot reading this forum, I'm hoping someone out there can share some insight.
(And if anyone has ideas about a better USB DAC than these two in the $500-800 range, please chime in!)

I'm new too this audiophile stuff , i recently bought
audio technica ATH-M50X's
Musical fidelity V90-HPA
Audio engine D1
Belkin Gold series USB A too B
I'm selling the D1 because i prefer the MF
do USB leads really matter ? i bought a Belkin gold series, i refuse to spend £££ on a lead
I've got the thing setup fine, iTunes is my music player (this is not a studio setup or anything i just listen to music whilst browsing eBay lol)
i currently have the following enhancements on in speaker properties
Virtual surround
Bass Boost
question about the bass boost i have it set at
Freq 600 Hz
Boost level 3dB
What should i run the bass at whats the difference in Hz, i mean it sounds amazing as it is
does anyone have any pointers on bass boost levels , should i run asio4all drivers or anything
just general tips would be helpful

Hi,
Has anyone tried using one of the USB to Ethernet adapters. The reason I ask, is I'd like to place my DAC near my preamp and amps. But I want my computer close to me so I can fiddle with settings, restart it, tag files etc. it would take about a 20 foot USB cable to do this and I know that's bad.
I would need two of these, one to convert USB 3.0 out to Ethernet and another from Ethernet back to USB. I'd also need an USB 3.0 female to female adapter to attach my Lampizator USB cable to, and then into the USB port on my DAC.
It seems like a good solution but I do worry about SQ. Below are the links to a couple of these items on Amazon.
Amazon.com : Cable Matters SuperSpeed USB 3.0 to RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet Adapter in Black : Usb Network Adapters : Computers & Accessories
USB 3.0 Gigabit Ethernet Adapter | Aluratek
Just looking for opinions,
Thanks,
Steven

So, here's the deal.
I own the PSB M4U2 headphones with a built-in amp. I then bought an Asus Xonar U7 external DAC/amp, thinking I could get better audio quality (Right now I'm using a port in my keyboard, sounds terrible). I get the Xonar today, but noticed a buzzing sound, stemming from ground loops. I had never heard of this until today.
What do I do now? I want a DAC/amp (Basically I just want better sound) for around 100-150 $ (Prefferably around 100 €, as I'm based in Europe). I dropped 400 $ on some sweet headphones, but I've got nothing to back it up.
I was looking at the E-MU 0204 E-MU 0204 USB it says it has ground lifts. Would that resolve the problem? Are there any alternatives?

I've been looking at a DAC I can use for travel.
It needs to be something I can drop into my business bag so I'll have no checked luggage although it doesn't have to be thumbdrive sized.
While I suspect few if anyone on this site has heard every usb powered DAC offering, I'm sure there are plenty of opinions. I currently have the Hiface and have heard Meridian's Director, but feel I can do better (no insult intended to the Hiface and Director owners out there).
I've been looking at Resonnence Labs Concero HD, and others.
Thoughts?
Extra credit for DSD capability and double extra credit for double DSD.
Thanks,
Joel

Hi all,
I recently bought an AK120 and am currently trying to figure out how to use it as an external DAC for my PC running windows 7 64 bit (Mac Book Pro running bootcamp).
i) I can't get windows to recognise it as an available external DAC, When I connect the USB cable, the options I see on the AK120 is either to charge the battery or connect USB, so I choose the latter and wait for it to connect. It connects ok and can view the file system as normal. However, when I go into the sound settings in windows, the AK120 is not registered as a USB device as expected. The screen on the AK120 just says 'USB connected'.
ii) I tried to test the digital optical input port and again this didn't seem to work. I was testing it using my Sony TV which has digital optical output. I connected them together and then expected to hear the audio through the connected headphones, but I couldn't hear anything.
The following are the use cases that I would like to work:
a) To enable to me to convert my vinyl to hi res digial audio:
* connect AK120 to USB port on computer,
* connect analog phono output from mixer to line-in on computer (I am not sure if this correct, would I need to connect it to the line-in on the AK120 instead?)
b) Use AK120 as a second sound card for my computer so that I can perform digital DJ mixing with my computer
* connect AK120 to USB port on computer
* connect headphone socket to amplifier
* use the headphone socket on the computer as the monitor
c) Use the AK120 as an external DAC for other digital devices
* connect the AK120 to device (e.g. TV) via the digital optical socket via SPDIF cable
This should be able to work with my PS3 and my SKY+ box, both of which have digital optical links.
I have tried to contact IRiver about the issues I'm having but they are next to useless, I have had no response from them at all, which means I have to resort to public bulletin boards instead.
Thanks for any advice you may have,
regards,
Y.
PS, I have also tried getting the AK120 recognised in Mac OSX Snow Leopard, but this also does not work.

Hello everyone.
I am new here so please bear with me on this.
I have a simple desktop setup PC - Creative EMU 0204 (DAC) - Aktimate Maxi (Powered Speakers).
I have been using the Creative EMU 0204 for about 2 years and now i am looking to upgrade to something better.
I know new DACs are coming out every day and i am assuming the technology is improving fast.
I have been looking at DACs in the price range of $100 - $250.
when you consider the no of options, there is a lot.
ODAC, Schiit Modi, HRT, AUNE, Hifimediy and many more. So i am totally confused as to which one i should go for.
I am not particularly biased about any brand or make and i am also open to buying used, if its a good deal.
I prefer neutral or slightly warm of neutral sound. And its a desktop setup so i dont want something big.
Lastly i only need a USB dac, i have no use for a Headphone AMP.
So please go ahead and give your suggestions about what i should buy.
Also if you would like to send me an offer for something good but used and around my price range, please do.
Thanks.

An interesting problem with windows 8 and my ultrafi dac (which has no problems with windows 7). Attach the usb cable, it detects, then the driver install hangs in the middle. It will stay there for an hour if you let it, but I cancel. It shows up in the sound devices fine, but in the properties the resolution is limited to 16/48K. Will not play any hi-res material unless downsampled to 48k, as instructed by the driver, obviously. Has happened to 2 installs now (both samsung notebooks) but my feeling is it is driver signing or something. Any clues or insights into Windows 8 usb audio drivers? Thanks much in advance for your help.

Hello,
I've just recently acquired a Rega Brio-R, a pair of Transparent Audio The Wave speaker cables, and a pair of Wharefdale Diamond 10.2 speakers. I'm using a Fiio D3 as a temporary DAC with some old Monster RCA interconnects & a Dynex Digital Optical Audio Cable hooked up to my late 2009 27" iMac to play a large library of lossless & HiRes tunes. What's a good DAC & RCA interconnects to partner up with the Rega & the Wharfedales?
I'm passing on the Rega Dac, because I don't like the USB option only doing 16 / 48 (the max is 96 on the iMac thru SPDIF) and I have a growing number of albums @ 24 / 192 I want to play. I plan on using a Transparent Audio USB or an Audioquest Carbon cable. These are the DACs so far I've seen (not heard) that interest me :
Schiit Bifrost & Gungnir (if I can scrounge up some extra scratch)
ifi iDac & iUSB
Emotiva XDA-2 & ProDAC (not out yet, in late Feb / early March)
Music Fidelity V-DAC II
HRT Music Streamer HD
Any suggestions, input, opinions, recommendations on the listed DACs or not would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks!

Dear Computer audiophile readers,
I currently live in France and will be moving to the US where the voltage is 110.
The unit is 220-240 V
As a result I am selling my Classe Audio CP 800 DAC /Pre Amp and also a Classé Ca 2200.
The CP 800 is 3 months.
The condition is as New.
I have put it up on Ebay France.
If any one needs to contact me feel free. I speak English and French.
I personally love the apparatus and will be buying the cp 800.
Apart from the fact that it is a great DAC the It is an excellent Pre amp in its own right.
Thanks,
Albert.

I've not posted much in these forums since joining in 2010, which I feel is my mistake. Here, audiophiles who are very serious about music congregate more than any other forum I've seen. Time to make friends.
(For more details and further sound impressions, check out my original review of the Porta Tube+.)
If you don't know GoVibe, it is Jaben's top-end brand, consisting of headphone amps, DAC's, and sometimes, cables. Today's review encapsulates the GoVibe Porta Tube+, a 24/96kHz USB DAC/headphone amp. 24/192kHz is achieved via upsampling. The DAC, a CIRRUS CS4398-CZZ. USB plug-play is its only stumbling block.
The main feature of the Porta Tube+ is the output valve, but I would like to draw attention to the fact that the GoVibe Porta Tube/+ is more impressive in that no matter which headphones are connected, whether low Ω headphones that drive down to 4Ω during heavy bass passages, or high Ω headphones like the DT880, that act very much like no load, but require more voltage, never stray farther than 1% performance from each other. Impressive performance to say the very least.
Of course, with a valve amp, there is overall more distortion than there is via a solid state amp, more phase errors, and oftentimes, a higher noise floor. The Porta Tube strikes each one of those except the last. Noise floor is extremely low even when very sensitive earphones such as the 1400$ FitEar ToGo 334 is plugged in, and equally as impressive via the Sleek Audio CT7, a dual-driver custom monitor.
There is no noise via any on-ear or over-ear headphone at any volume level in low gain. High gain is the realm of headphones, not earphones.
Gain modes
Now I suppose I should mention: gain is changed via internal jumper switches. While archaic, it has less impact on the sound because of fewer circuit connections in the amp. But, to change from low to high and visa versa, you must unscrew each of 8 screws, push the board out, then use long-nose pliers, or be handy with a small (-) screwdriver.
TMA's review goes further into that.
Low gain has good balance between channels for sensitive IEM earphones, while high gain will render too much volume for them to achieve balance. High gain is great for voltage hungry headphones, but I found even low gain more than enough for my 600Ω DT880, and the 64Ω K701. No problems at all.
Sound in a nutshell
While this amp is driven by a valve, and it posts higher distortion numbers than a solid state amp, it is bright, energetic, and easy to love. There is none of that bloom that pervades the signal of lesser valve amps, and no congestion at all.
Again, no matter which earphones/headphones you have plugged in, the Porta Tube acts very like there is nothing plugged in at all. Nothing obstructs the clarity of its signal, its rise time, and decay. That said, there is a bit of softness in the signal no matter the output device. It's a lovely cloud in both the high/low frequencies that demonstrates itself in a slight blending of L/R channels.
It is perfectly 'tubey', yet perfectly coherent in every phase.
The volume pot is silky smooth and balanced even at low frequencies, and unless you trip the high gain and attempt to blow your headphones at 90% volume, phase errors are nil. In other words, there is no phasing the Porta Tube/+.
As a DAC, it is competent, but I've found that USB battery powered DAC's perform less well as DACs than they do as line-input devices. The iPod touch drives signal better from its line out better than the USB-DAC does. If you up the quality of the input, say, to a AlgoRythm Solo, a CD player, or good pre-amp, it only gets better. But, the final output will remain within CD-quality benchmarks.
Whatever you think about that is whatever you think. I'm incredibly impressed. Admittedly, my experience with valve has stayed 100% in the living room with power amps, headphone amps, and one or two DACs (how does that work?), but I'm confident in saying that from a performance and sound perspective, the Porta Tube+ is one of the greats in this field, certainly at its price.
For more details and further sound impressions, check out my original review of the Porta Tube+.